Charles Francis Adams to William H. Seward, July 21, 1864

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.

Sir: I have the honor to transmit a copy of a note addressed to me by Lord Russell, on the 19th instant, and certain printed notices enclosed, restricting the approach to this city of vessels loaded with combustibles. I send likewise a copy of my reply of the 20th. I have sent a note to Mr. Morse, the consul at this place, on the subject, together with some of the notices, in order that our war steamers may be promptly apprised of it. I have no idea, however, that any of them think of coming up here.

The Kearsarge has been at Dover, but has now left, and the Sacramento has taken her place. The twenty-four hours’ rule compels these vessels to keep at a distance, if they remain. I think the effect of their presence is to put a check on the operations of the rebel agents and their sympathizers here and in France. They appear to confine themselves to fitting out such steamers as the Hawk and Alexandra, now called the Mary, nominally to run the blockade, but possibly to be used hereafter, in other ways, if opportunity should offer.

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,